Leeds United’s only real position of need heading into the January transfer window appears to be a number 10.
Daniel Farke was directly asked about Leeds‘ chances of signing one in a press conference last week, and though he did not confirm either way, his frustration at not landing one in the summer could be an indication they revisit it next month.
Brenden Aaronson has started each of Leeds‘ last seven league matches in that role, but after a strong start to the season, has seen his form tail off a tad.
He could really do with someone to come in and provide cover and competition, even if Farke has hinted at Joe Rothwell being an option there now Ethan Ampadu is fit again.
One potential target who has been linked in the last few days is Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna, who was recently crowned the MLS’ Young Player of the Season.
Leeds are said to have explored a potential deal for Luna ahead of the January window, though nothing is imminent in terms of a deal being completed.
MLS expert shares verdict on new Leeds target Diego Luna
Amid links to a player Leeds fans may not be too aware of, LeedsUnited.News have spoken exclusively to GRV Media’s MLS expert Dylan Walsh, who has given us the lowdown on what Luna is all about.
Q – What sort of no. 10 is Diego Luna?
A – “If there’s one word to describe Diego Luna both as a player and as a person, a lot of people would say ‘Maverick’. Even at just 21-years-old, Luna does a lot that goes against the grain to what many people would expect from a no. 10, but that’s what make’s Luna so special and was a key reason why the Real Salt Lake star joined the likes of Clint Dempsey, Thiago Almada and Cyle Larin in winning MLS Young Player of the Year.
“Nine goals and eight assists in all competitions also paints a picture of a no. 10 who doesn’t have preferred style in mind. Luna was once extremely attack-minded during his first few months in MLS with RSL. But this year has seen the versatile attacking midfielder mature greatly, though that still hasn’t stopped him from taking the opportunity to completely embarrass rival defenders when given the chance.”
Q – Is he ready to make an impact straight away in the Championship?
A – “100%. Luna showed this year why he’s considered one of the most exciting talents not just in the United States, but all of North America, with Mauricio Pochettino’s Stars and Stripes and Mexico both currently in a bidding war to secure the youngster’s international services.
“MLS to the Championship has proven to be quite a good first step into European football for American-based talents, with Leeds having great success across the years with these sort of players from Jack Harrison to Tyler Adams to now Brenden Aaronson, and Luna could be a real threat in the Championship for Leeds if Daniel Farke is willing to work with the attacking midfielder and to get the best out of his qualities.”
Q – Would he be an upgrade on Leeds’ current no.10 and US international Brenden Aaronson?
A – “Upgrade might not be the right word to describe Diego Luna at Leeds with Brenden Aaronson still at the club. The RSL star is a different profile compared to his USA counterpart, who has proven himself to be a more creative force during his time in Europe with the likes of Leeds, Union Berlin and RB Salzburg.
“Given how different Luna and Aaronson are, though, it wouldn’t be out of the question to see Daniel Farke try and use the attacking duo in the same system, an idea that could fire Leeds to Premier League promotion as well as produce some electric football at Elland Road.”
Our verdict on Leeds links with Diego Luna
Based on these comments it certainly does appear as though Luna would add something different to Leeds’ squad, and more importantly, be ready to make an immediate impact.
There is no point in Leeds signing potential projects for the future next month as the only thing that matters between now and May is winning promotion.
Luna seemingly has an excellent work rate and end product but one potential concern could be that he isn’t viewed as an upgrade to Aaronson.
However, if Leeds feel he is someone who can give Farke’s side that added X-Factor for the rest of the season then it is a deal they should get done.
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